There’s no doubt that owning a home comes with significant financial benefits. And this time of year is a great time to reflect on the other reasons why owning a home is so meaningful. Today, December 26, is National Homeowners Day and its the day some people think is the ideal day to put an offer on a home to get the best deal. Well, that’s debatable. For so many reasons, like the fact that all real estate is local. Hyper local in fact. What is happening in Nevada or Florida or even Philadelphia has very little effect on home sales in South Central PA.
But, the real reason why no day of the year is able to be the “best” day of the year to make an offer on a home is that the number one reason people buy a home is because …… they want to. Yup. They want to. Look at the graphic, with the exception of a hardship, all of those reasons are based on reasons that are personal, and revolve around what people want to do. And it makes sense, because a house is not just a thing.
A house is more than four walls and a roof – it’s home, a place where memories are made, connections are built, and life happens.
From the sense of accomplishment that comes with owning your own home to the joy of creating a space that’s uniquely yours, the emotional connections we have to our homes can be just as important as the financial ones.
Here are some of the things that turn a house into a happy home.
Buying a home is a significant milestone, whether it’s your first or your fifth. You’ve worked hard to make it happen and achieving this goal is a reason to celebrate. There’s nothing quite like stepping through the door of a home that’s yours and knowing you’ve accomplished something truly special.
Compared to renting, owning a home can give you a much greater sense of security and privacy. It’s your own place – not your landlord’s – and that just feels different and safer. No one else has the keys but you and that gives you your own personal safe place to retreat to at the end of a long day.
Owning a home means you have the freedom to personalize it however you like. While there can be HOA guidelines you may have to follow depending on where you buy, you can still make it a reflection of your style and create a space that feels just right for you. As Freddie Mac explains:
“As the homeowner, you have the freedom to adopt a pet, paint the walls any color you choose, renovate your kitchen, and more. You can customize your own space without approval from landlords.”
More Households in the U.S. have pets than children. Really, it’s true. According to recent data shared by the National Association of Realtors®, the share of U.S. households with children is 40%, compared to 70% of households that have a pet. It’s not that surprising really, because as a renter, you can only have a pet if your landlord allows it.
Multi-Generational home buying is an increasing trend. Have you heard of the “sandwich generation”? Most often Gen X, but also including older Millenials, the sandwich generation is adults helping to take care of parents while also taking care of kids. Maybe you’ve heard of grandparents moving in with kids to help provide childcare, or college graduates staying with parents for a few years before they launch to build financial stability. While not everyone wants these scenarios, multi generation households are a growing part of the housing market and there can be a lot of benefits. As always, thats a personal decision for you, unless of course you rent, and the landlord doesn’t want to allow another adult to move in.
Homeownership often means putting down roots in a neighborhood and becoming a part of the local community. According to groups like Habitat for Humanity, owning a home increases your interest in getting involved with your neighbors and local organizations. Whether it’s through joining a neighborhood group, volunteering, or simply getting to know the people next door, a home is a great foundation for building meaningful connections.
Owning a home is about so much more than financial benefits – it’s about the pride, well-being, control of your life and sense of belonging it can bring. If you have questions, or when you’re ready to take the next step toward buying a home, we’re here to help, call us at 717-371-0557.
Your Friends in Real Estate,
Jason Burkholder
Kelly Burkholder
Jaci Hoosier
Ron Weaver
Jason Burkholder Team
Hometown Property Sales
717-207-8093 office
